Gary's achievement opens university to all, says Blaenau Gwent AM
18-05-2011
Ebbw Vale, 17 May 2011 - Blaenau Gwent AM Alun Davies has paid tribute to an award-winning learner who has combined university study with bringing up two children and running his own business in Ebbw Vale – all while registered blind!
Gary Denyer, 53, is studying for certificate of higher education qualifications in psychology, counselling and mentoring under the auspices of UHOVI, the Universities Heads of the Valleys Institute. Gary’s courses have been delivered by the University of Wales Newport’s Centre for Continuing and Lifelong Learning (CCLL) in Tredegar.
Gary, who runs the GG Services internet café in Church Street, Ebbw Vale, has combined his studies with running his business and bringing up two children. He won the Blaenau Gwent HE Learner of the Year honour in May 2011.
Speaking at the event at Coleg Gwent’s Ebbw Vale campus, Alun Davies AM said: “Gary demonstrates that individuals in the Heads of the Valleys have the potential and intellect to achieve, and can get great benefit from higher education. The UHOVI initiative shows that, by working in partnership with the Welsh Government, our universities, HE colleges and communities can start realising the huge benefits of education and the untapped potential of people in our velleys,”
Gary said: “I feel that it’s very important that people with a disability feel that they can access the benefits of university. I have had a lot of superb support from tutors and support staff, together with specialist equipment, and this vital funding is there for us. I want this award to show other disabled adults that they are able to get on, and get higher qualifications. I’d say to them that, despite the fact that you have a disability, you can achieve your potential. If I can do it, anybody else can. My aim is now to study full-time at university next year, and the credits I have gained will count towards my degree study.”